Simple Chicken Noodle Soup (Phở Gà style)
This simple Phở Gà style chicken noodle soup is a light, aromatic, and incredibly comforting meal, perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
For 2 servings
Prepare the aromatics: Lightly char the halved onion and sliced ginger directly over a gas flame or under a broiler until slightly blackened. This step adds depth to the broth. If no gas flame, you can skip charring or sauté them briefly in a dry pan.
Simmer the broth: In a medium pot, combine chicken broth, water, charred onion, sliced ginger, and star anise. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Skim any foam that rises to the surface.
Season the broth: Remove the onion, ginger, and star anise from the broth using a slotted spoon. Stir in the fish sauce, sugar, and salt. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed; the broth should be savory with a hint of sweetness and umami.
Cook the noodles: While the broth simmers, cook the dry rice vermicelli according to package directions (usually soaking in hot water for 5-7 minutes or boiling for 1-2 minutes). Drain well and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking.
Prepare garnishes: Arrange the shredded cooked chicken, bean sprouts, fresh basil, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, lime wedges, and optional jalapeño slices on a platter for easy assembly.
Assemble the bowls: Divide the cooked and drained rice vermicelli evenly among two large serving bowls. Top each portion of noodles with a generous amount of shredded chicken.
Serve: Ladle the hot, aromatic broth carefully over the noodles and chicken in each bowl. Ensure the broth is piping hot to warm everything through.
Garnish and enjoy: Garnish each bowl generously with fresh bean sprouts, basil leaves, cilantro, and green onions. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing, and optional Sriracha or hoisin sauce for those who prefer extra flavor or heat.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a deeper flavor, use homemade chicken broth. If using store-bought, opt for a low-sodium, good quality brand.
- 2Don't overcook the vermicelli noodles; they should be tender but still have a slight bite. Rinsing them after cooking prevents them from becoming gummy.
- 3Charring the onion and ginger is a traditional Vietnamese technique that adds a distinctive smoky depth to the broth. Don't skip it if you can!
- 4Always serve the garnishes on the side. This allows each diner to customize their bowl to their preference, adding freshness and crunch as they eat.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Replace chicken with thinly sliced cooked beef (Phở Bò style), shrimp, or pan-fried tofu for a different protein profile.
Vegetarian VersionVegetarian Version
Use a high-quality vegetable broth and replace chicken with pan-fried tofu or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add a pinch of chili flakes or a few slices of bird's eye chili to the broth while simmering, or serve with chili garlic sauce on the side.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Hydration Boost
The broth-based nature of this soup provides excellent hydration, essential for overall health and recovery, especially when feeling under the weather.
Lean Protein Source
Shredded chicken offers a lean source of protein, crucial for muscle repair, satiety, and maintaining energy levels without excess fat.
Nutrient-Rich Herbs
Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, and green onions are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to immune support and overall well-being.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, the broth can be prepared up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving. This can significantly cut down on prep time on the day of serving.
